Village of Weston Annual 2015 - Utilities Report

WESTON MUNICIPAL UTILITIES

2015 UTILITIES ANNUAL

REPORT www.westonwi.gov

TABLE OF CONTENTS GENERAL INFORMATION Letter from the Director of Public Works & Utilities Keith Donner, P.E.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Weston Awarded As Silver Wisconsin Water Star Community. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Digger’s Hotline 811. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Payments by ACH/EFT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 5 Utility Facts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Weston Utility Service Boundary Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

WATER SUPPLY

Private Wells. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Be a Leak Seeker - Fix Toilet Leaks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Water Pressure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Lawn Watering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Public Awareness: Cross Connection Control Bathroom & Kitchens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

WASTEWATER COLLECTION Weston Municipal Utilities Reports High Marks for Wastewater Collection System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Owner Tip: Get Sewer Backup Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Flushable Wipes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Sanitary Sewer Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Sewer Cleaning Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

2015 BOARD OF TRUSTEES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 2015 UTILITY LEADERSHIP TEAM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 STORMWATER Utility FAQs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

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2015 UTILITIES ANNUAL REPORT

GENERAL INFORMATION LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS & UTILITIES KEITH DONNER, P.E. Due to our focus on day-to-day tasks, the Department of Public Works & Utilities hasn’t taken proper time to better inform you— the customers of Weston Municipal Utilities and the taxpayers of the Village of Weston—of the utility’s activities and role with the Village. It’s my sincere hope that this annual report can help start us down a path to provide information to you more regularly.

In fact, improving communication with our customers is one of the goals in our strategic plan (a plan updated every 2 years and not solely focused on utility operations). The Department’s strategic plan has the overall goals of: Organizational Capacity Development and Maintenance— Develop and maintain the physical, financial, and human resources required to deliver the desired services at the level defined by the citizens and elected officials.

Organizational Resiliency—Develop and implement systems and processes that position the organization to continue service delivery over time and through times of significant change or crisis.

Promotion of a Culture of Continuous Improvement—Examine and re-examine all necessary services, processes, and procedures to incrementally improve service delivery, to reduce costs, or both.

(Resources for even the most essential services are dwindling, at least from traditional sources. In addition, municipal government is being subjected to a heightened level of scrutiny as stewards of the public’s resources. It’s not reasonable to expect elected officials and taxpayers to simply accept that staff “knows best” with no questions asked or that business can continue as usual.)

We have developed an ambitious strategic plan. Here are a few of the highlights included in the strategic plan that have been getting attention the past few years: Strategic Plan Project Implementation of mobile Graphical Information System (GIS) and mobile access to Village mapping Implementation of a cloud-based Maintenance Management System for the Village’s capital assets Remote access to the water utility’s Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system Development and updating of a Snow and Ice Control Policy

Why? Saves staff time, as compared to having to make trips back to the office to research paper records Saves staff time in recording, archiving, and researching data on physical assets, as compared to keeping paper records Saves staff time in ability to access information remotely and to determine the necessity to respond in person Provides clarity for customers, staff, and elected officials in administering policy and related ordinances Updating of the Frozen Water Provides clarity for customers, Lateral Policy staff, and elected officials in administering policy and related ordinances Capital Equipment Maintains capacity to perform Replacement Plan (now in its services; Minimizes operating third year of implementation) costs (via reduced repairs) Update safety policies and Reduces workman’s conduct safety training compensation claims; Less lost time Employee education and Helps employees stay current training with best practices in their areas of responsibility; Improves employee engagement Replace Village-owned Reduces energy consumption; incandescent street lights with Increases long-term savings; LED lights Improves safety on roadway Install variable frequency Reduces energy consumption; drives at water treatment Increases long-term savings facility and Alta Verde well continued on page 3

WESTON AWARDED AS SILVER WISCONSIN WATER STAR COMMUNITY In February, 2011, the Village of Weston was recognized as a Silver Water Star Community by the University of Wisconsin Extension for excellence in the protection of surface water and groundwater. The award was presented at the February 7, 2011, meeting of the Board of Trustees to Village President Fred Schuster and Director of Public Works Keith Donner. The award is based on a community meeting a majority of over 400 criteria focused on the adoption of conservation and protection practices to preserve a community’s water supply. UW–Extension’s Mary Kluz highlighted the community’s progress in storm water management education and water conservation as two of the featured highlights of Weston’s recent efforts.

The Wisconsin Water Star program has been indefinitely suspended following cuts to the UW System. However, the Village of Weston will continue to promote and encourage water resource stewardship through programs like rain barrel workshops and water conservation measures.

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2015 UTILITIES ANNUAL REPORT

LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR continued from page 2

Strategic plan projects that are underway with anticipated completion within the next 12 months include: Strategic Plan Project Updating sewer user ordinance and evaluating current rates and rate design (how charges for service are recovered); Evaluating current water rates and filing for a rate increase with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin

Why? To articulate conditions of service for sewer users and water users; To charge fair and equitable rates; To provide clarity for staff and elected officials in administering ordinances and policies; To maintain capacity and resilience of utility infrastructure Implementing Automated Meter Reduces staff time spent in Reading meter reading and reallocates time to other utility needs; Improves utility’s ability to provide customers information about water usage Completing a Capital Maintains capacity Improvement Plan and resilience of public infrastructure Updating the Main Extension Defines obligations for Policy developers so as to balance economic growth with the impact of system extensions on existing customers Updating the Department’s Keeps customers informed website about policies, ordinances, and issues of general interest The Department also intends to pursue accreditation for its operation through the American Public Works Association to demonstrate our professionalism by comparison to a set of standards. This effort is directly related to the strategic plan goal of continuous improvement.

And speaking of professionalism… Although being a certified operator is not a necessity (except for 1 person on the staff), of the 7 people regularly involved with utility operation, 5 are certified operators through the Wisconsin DNR (Department of Natural Resources). This includes all 4 of the operators who perform daily tasks for the utilities, such as well checks, chemical feed adjustments, meter changes, sewer cleaning, etc. It should be comforting for you to know that all our operators are well versed in the regulations and principles of operating a utility.

As a parting thought, Public Works (in general) and Water and Wastewater service (in particular) are easy to take for granted.

While we may think of water and wastewater services as “givens” in our modern urban areas, this was not always the case—and, in parts of the world, is still not the case. It’s only been in the last 100 years or so that waterborne diseases have been virtually eliminated in the U.S. as a result of water disinfection and wastewater collection and treatment.

Yes, we expect service and quality. But keeping up with capital replacement needs in public works—and meeting the increased expectations of today’s customers—requires additional resources.

The value of the utility systems is not just for economic growth, but for maintaining and protecting public health. We at Weston Municipal Utilities are committed to improving our ability to serve our customers, now and in the future.

Digger’s Hotline Call Before You Dig! TTY 1-800-542-2289

PAYMENTS BY ACH/EFT

By Donna VanSwol, Utility Clerk Weston Municipal Utilities is set up to accept utility payments via Automated Clearing House (ACH) or Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT), whereby the customer’s payment is automatically deducted from their checking or savings account near the due date of their quarterly utility bill. To be enrolled in our FREE automated ACH/EFT utility payment system, simply fill out the coupon below and return to Weston Municipal Utilities (please remember to update your bank account information in the event that anything changes).

WESTON MUNICIPAL UTILITIES ENROLLMENT SIGN-UP FOR AUTOMATIC ACH/EFT UTILITY PAYMENT OPTION Utility Customer Information Name: __________________________________________________ Property Address: ________________________________________ Phone Number: __________________________________________ Utility Account #: _________________________________________ Bank Account Information Bank Name: ____________________________________________ Customer Bank Routing #: _______________________________ Customer Bank Account #: _______________________________ (please check appropriate box) Is Bank Account a Checking account?

Is Bank Account a Savings account?

Yes Yes

Attach a blank/voided CHECK or savings account verification from your bank with your completed enrollment coupon to ensure that the correct bank account number will be submitted to the bank in the first utility payment cycle.

Mail enrollment coupon & voided check or savings account verification to: Weston Utilities PO Box 446, Weston, WI 54476-0446

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2015 UTILITIES ANNUAL REPORT

5 UTILITY FACTS completely separate from the remainder of the Weston system.

Off Road (see map) – is sent to the City of Wausau’s treatment facility through mains in the City of Schofield.

The Foremost Dairies facility resides on land owned by the Village of Weston and leased to Foremost under a 99-year agreement.

By Keith Donner, Director of Public Works & Utilities

4. Weston has 5 staff members certified as water supply operators by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

In 2015, Foremost accounted for an average of 664,000 gallons per day of water use. The remainder of the Utility’s customers in the service area accounted for an average of 1,441,000 gallons per day.

1. As of December 31, 2015, Weston

Municipal Utilities provides water and wastewater collection service to 5,231customers in the Village of Weston and the Village of Rothschild and stormwater service to 5,224 properties in the Village of Weston.

5. Weston Municipal Utilities is responsible for operating and maintaining: • 120 miles of water main • 917 fire hydrants • 6 wells • 4 elevated water storage tanks with a maximum capacity of 950,000 gallons of water • 103 miles of sewer main • 1,948 sewer holess • 14 wastewater pumping stations (commonly referred to as “lift stations”) • 62 miles of storm sewer main

3. The majority of wastewater from the Utility’s customers in Weston and all the wastewater from customers in Rothschild is treated by the Rib Mountain Metropolitan Sewerage District treatment facility on the west side of the Wisconsin River.

2. The Utility serves 730 customers in

the Village of Rothschild as a result of an area in the former Town of Weston being annexed prior to the Village of Weston incorporation.

The Utility’s largest water customer is Foremost Dairies, that is served by a well and water tower which is

Wastewater from 166 customers in the northwest part of the Village of Weston – generally along Ross Avenue and Cut-

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2015 UTILITIES ANNUAL REPORT

WATER SUPPLY PRIVATE WELLS

By Valerie Parker, Planning Technician There are currently about 380 permitted private wells on properties served by the Weston public water supply. This year 172 of those permitted private wells are due for permit renewal.

The Village of Weston is required by the WI DNR to be sure all private wells, on properties that are served by our public water supply, are in working condition and are bacteriologically safe. The Village of Weston does this by issuing 5-year private well permits. Issuance of a new or renewal permit involves Village staff meeting with homeowners at their property to collect a water sample from the private well (to assure it is bacteriologically safe) and to perform a cross connection inspection (to assure the private well is physically separated from the public water supply).

A revision to the Wisconsin Administrative Code (NR 810) in 2011 affects those properties served by the public water supply, which also have a private well. An additional requirement was added to NR 810.16 Local Well Regulation Program (2)(b): “..That the well and pump system be evaluated by a licensed well driller or pump installer and certified to comply with ch. NR 812, subch. IV, prior to issuing the initial permit and no less than every 10 years afterwards.

This means homeowners requiring a private well permit renewal in 2012, and thereafter, are now be required to have their wells inspected by a licensed well driller/pump installer, and to obtain a completed copy of DNR form 3300-221 signed by a licensed well driller/pump installer who performed the inspection. Homeowners are responsible for hiring a licensed well driller/pump installer and paying their well inspection fees. A complete list of licensed well drillers/pump installers throughout Wisconsin can be found on the DNR’s website: dnr.wi.gov, or by calling their office at 715-359-4522.

Homeowners can then apply through the Village of Weston to have their 5-year private well permit renewed by furnishing a completed DNR form.

The Village’s fee for the 5-year permit is $115.00, and includes the cost of one water sample ($40.00 for any additional samples needed). This fee is in addition to any fees charged by the licensed pump installer/well driller.

If your private well is no longer working and you are considering having your private well abandoned, please take note that only licensed well drillers or pump installers can abandon a private well as of June 1, 2008.

Because well abandonments can get quite costly, there are programs available that can help ease the financial burden. The Village of Weston Private Well Abandonment Incentive/Assistance Program allows you to borrow the money from the Village and repay in installments, up to two years. The Wisconsin DNR is a possible source of grants that homeowners may also wish to investigate.

Weston Municipal Utilities periodically receives calls from customers who are interested in installing driven point wells on their properties to be used for irrigation purposes. Please take note that prior to the construction of any well, including a driven point, you must obtain a DNR Notification Number.

Please contact Valerie Parker, Private Well Coordinator, at (715) 2412607, or via e-mail at vparker@westonwi.gov, with any questions related to private wells including permits, new well construction, and well abandonment.

BE A LEAK SEEKER FIX TOILET LEAKS

By Chad Dietsche, Utility Operator Toilets are a common source of water leaks and can sometimes be difficult to detect. Keeping your toilets in good working order will help your water conservation efforts. Here are some tips to help you: • Water running or leaking from a pipe usually makes a characteristic hissing sound. So, go around and listen for any “hiss” that might indicate a toilet leak. Any sound coming from a toilet that is not being used is a sure sign of a leak.

• Leaks from the toilet tank are often less obvious since the water draining (by gravity) from the tank to the bowl doesn’t always make noise. To test for “flapper leaks,” put food coloring in the toilet tank and wait about 10 minutes to see whether any of the color leaks into the toilet bowl. Flapper replacement is the most common remedy for this type of leak.

• Check the float ball assemblies for corrosion of metal components that may prevent the shutoff of water refilling the tank so it runs over into the overflow pipe. This type of leak won’t show in a dye test and can cause a significant amount of water loss.

• Some other obvious signs your toilet is leaking include: • If you have to jiggle the handle to make a toilet stop running • If you have to hold the handle down to allow the tank to empty (This can also mean the chain or strap is too long and doesn’t lift the flapper or ball high enough to float on its own.)

• If you can see water trickling down the sides of the toilet bowl long after it’s flushed • If a toilet turns the water on for about 15 seconds without you touching the handle Small leaks that go undetected can result in a large volume of lost water over time. Lost water due to toilet leaks provides you no benefits, but still has to be paid for.

Be mindful of checking all your toilets regularly— particularly those that may be in areas used less frequently. No one wants to see water wasted.

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2015 UTILITIES ANNUAL REPORT

WATER PRESSURE

By John Borth, Utility Foreman The Utility commonly receives inquiries as to the water pressure in many areas of the water distribution system. Water pressure is influenced by your location in relation to pumping stations and the water usage in the water system. However, the water pressure at any location is primarily related to the height of the water in our water towers relative to the ground surface at a particular location. To create one pound per square inch (1 p.s.i.) of pressure, there must be 2.3 feet of water depth. As an example, the pressure at the base of a water tower with 100 feet of water is 43.5 p.s.i.

It is most common for water systems to have areas where water pressure is too low. Low pressures typically occur in areas of high ground elevations or at the far reaches of a water distribution system.

Weston Municipal Utilities does not have any areas where low water pressure is a concern because our water towers are located in areas with the higher ground elevations in the service area and our system has relatively low rates of water demand with good looping of adequately sized mains.

There have been some concerns raised as to high water pressure in areas of the water distribution system. Public Service Commission regulations permit existing water systems to have pressures up to 125 p.s.i. and new water systems to have pressures up to 100 p.s.i. Whenever the water pressure exceeds 80 p.s.i., the State Plumbing Code calls for a pressure-reducing valve to be installed on the water service line. When the pressure exceeds 80 p.s.i., there is the possibility of decreased plumbing fixture life, leakage from water heater temperature and pressure valves, noise from the water meter, and increased water usage.

The map shows areas (shaded) where the water pressure exceeds 80 p.s.i. in the Utility’s water distribution system. The boundary area follows the ground elevation of 1,220 feet above mean sea level. There are areas north of Highway 29 where the water pressure is slightly above 80 p.s.i. The map also shows an area in the southern part of the water system where water pressure is between 80 and 100 p.s.i. The Village measures pressure at the ground surface so slight discrepancies may be apparent due to the depth of a basement. The Utility’s sewer and water permit application clearly alerts the applicant to the need to verify pressure and the need for a pressure-reducing valve.

If you are located in an area with pressure slightly exceeding 80 p.s.i. and are not experiencing any of the aforementioned problems, it is unlikely you will need a pressure reducing valve. However, if you have a concern on the water pressure, please contact Weston Municipal Utilities.

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LAWN WATERING

By Dave Krause, Utilities Operator

With summer upon us, many of us will be watering our lawns daily.

Over-watering and watering during the middle of the day are the two most common mistakes people make with their lawns. Once a lawn is established, it should only be watered once or twice a week. The soil should be moistened to a depth of about 6”, which usually means using about an inch of water. The amount of water used on the lawn can be measured by placing a can under the sprinkler. More frequent shallow watering on an established lawn will cause shallow rooting, invite crabgrass invasion, and encourage disease. Early morning is the best time to water, as your lawn has a chance to dry out during the course of the day, also reducing the likelihood of disease and fungus. Watering during midday is a tremendous waste, as up to 70% of the water can be evaporated before it is able to soak into the ground.

We ask that all residents be more environmentally responsible and follow these few simple guidelines when watering their lawns this summer.

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2015 UTILITIES ANNUAL REPORT

PUBLIC AWARENESS: CROSS CONNECTION CONTROL BATHROOM & KITCHENS What What is aisCross a Cross Connection?

Connection? isconnection a CrossisConnection?

A cross AWhat cross connection an is an actual actual or potential or potential connection connection between between thethe safe safe drinking drinking water water (potable) (potable) supply supply andand source source

A cross connection an actual orplumbing potential connection between theback-flow safe drinking water (potable) supply and source of contamination of contamination or pollution. or is pollution.

State State plumbing codes codes require require approved approved back-flow prevention prevention devices, devices, assemblies, assemblies, or or contamination orinstalled pollution. plumbing codes require approved back-flow prevention devices, assemblies, or theof the methods methods to be to be installed at every atState every point point of potable of potable water water connection connection and and use. use.

Cross Cross Connections Connections must must be be properly properly the methods to be installed at every point of potable water connection and use. Cross Connections must be properly protected protected or eliminated. or eliminated. protected orcontamination eliminated. occur?

How How does does contamination occur?

How does contamination When When you you turnturn on on a faucet, a faucet, youoccur? you expect expect thethe water water to be to be as as safe safe as as when when it left it left thethe treatment treatment plant. plant.

However, However, certain certain When you turn onleft a faucet, you expect the water to be as safe as when it hazardous lefthazardous the treatment plant.toHowever, certain hydraulic hydraulic conditions conditions left unprotected unprotected within within your your plumbing plumbing system system may may allow allow substances substances enter to enter and and hydraulic conditions leftdrinking unprotected your plumbing system may allow hazardous substances to enter contaminate contaminate your your own own drinking water water orwithin even or even the the public public water water supply. supply.

Water Water normally normally flows flows in one in one direction direction to your toand your contaminate your own drinking water or water even the public water supply.

Waterthis normally flows in one direction toare your faucet. faucet.

However However under under certain certain conditions, conditions, water cancan actually actually flowflow backwards; backwards; this is known is known as as Backflow.

Backflow.

There There are However under certain conditions, water can actually flow backwards; twofaucet. two situations situations thatthat can can cause cause Backflow: Backflow: back back siphonage siphonage andand back back pressure. pressure. this is known as Backflow. There are two situations that can cause Backflow: back siphonage and back pressure.

Back Back Siphonage: Siphonage: May May occur occur duedue to atoloss a loss of pressure of pressure in the in the municipal municipal water water supply supply such such as as from from a water a water main main break. break.

Back Siphonage: May occur due to a loss of pressure in the municipal water supply such as from a water main break.

Back Back Pressure: Pressure: May May occur occur when when a source a source (such (such as as a boiler a boiler or aorpjaump) pjump) creates creates a greater a greater pressure pressure than than thethe incoming incoming water water supply. supply.

Back Pressure: May occur when a source (such as a boiler or a pjump) creates a greater pressure than the incoming water supply.

In In thethe Bathroom Bathroom - Hand - Hand Held Held Shower Shower

In held the Bathroom - isHand Held if:Shower TheThe hand hand held shower shower fixture fixture compliant is compliant if: The hand held shower fixture is compliant if: • • When When thethe shower shower hose hose head head is hanging is hanging freely, freely, it it • is at When the hose head hanging freely, is least at least 1 inch 1shower inch above above thethe toptop ofisthe of the flood flood level levelit 1 inch (tub) above rimis rim ofatthe ofleast the receptor receptor (tub)the top of the flood level rim of the receptor • • Complies Complies withwith ASSE ASSE #(tub) 1014 # 1014 with ASSE # 1014stamped • •• HasComplies Has thethe ASME ASME code code 112.18.1 112.18.1 stamped on on thethe • handle Has the ASME code 112.18.1 stamped on the handle handle

In In thethe Bathroom Bathroom - Toilet - Toilet Tanks Tanks In the Bathroom - Toilet Tanks There There areare many many unapproved unapproved toilet toilet tank tank fill fill valve valve

There are many toilet tankdofilldo valve products products sold sold at common at unapproved common retailers retailers which which not not meet meet sold at code common retailers which do not meet theproducts the state state plumbing plumbing code requirements requirements forfor backflow backflow the state plumbing code requirements for backflow prevention. prevention. prevention.

• • Look Look forfor thethe ASSE ASSE #1002 #1002 Standard Standard symbol symbol on on

• device Look forand the ASSE #1002 Standard symbol on device and packaging. packaging. device and packaging.

• • Replace Replace anyany unapproved unapproved devices devices withwith an an ASSE ASSE • #1002 Replace any unapproved devices with an ASSE #1002 approved approved antianti siphon siphon ball-cock ball-cock assembly. assembly. #1002 approved siphon ball-cockdevice assembly.

Average Average cost cost forfor thisanti this do-it-yourself-type do-it-yourself-type device Average forimprovement this do-it-yourself-type available available at cost home at home improvement stores stores is $8 isdevice $8 to to available at home improvement stores is $8 to $22. $22. $22.

• • Verify Verify overflow overflow tube tube is one is one inch inch below below critical critical level level • (CL) Verify overflow tube is one inch below critical level (CL) marking marking on on device device (CL) marking on device

Your water can become contaminated if connections to your plumbing system are not properly protected?

The purpose of a local Cross Connection Program, as required by State Plumbing Code and Regulations, is to ensure everyone in the community has safe, clean drinking water.

Your water can become contaminated if connections to your plumbing system are not properly protected?

The purpose of a local Cross Connection Program, as required by State Plumbing Code and Regulations, is to ensure everyone in the community has safe, clean drinking water.

It’s Public Safety ...

To avoid contamination, back flow preventers are required by state plumbing codes wherever there is an actual or potential hazard for cross connection.

The Department of Natural Resources requires all public water suppliers to maintain an on-going Cross Connection Control Program involving public

It’s Public Safety ...

Weston Municipal Center 5500 Schofield Avenue Weston WI 54476

Did you know...

To avoid contamination, back flow preventers are required by state plumbing codes wherever there is an actual or potential hazard for cross connection.

The Department of Natural Resources requires all public water suppliers to maintain an on-going Cross Connection Control Program involving public education, onsite inspections, and possible corrective actions by building owners.

WI Dept. of Safety & Professional Services: www.dsps.wi.gov WI Department of Natural Resources: www.dnr.wi.gov Environmental Protection Agency:

• • Keep Keep thethe ends ends of hoses of hoses clear clear of all of all possible possible • contaminants.

Keep the ends of hoses clear of all possible contaminants. contaminants.

• • Make Make sure sure dishwashers dishwashers areare installed installed withwith

• theMake sure dishwashers are installed with the proper proper “air“air gap” gap” device. device. the proper “air gap” device.

• • Verify Verify there there areare simple simple hose hose bibb bibb vacuum vacuum breaker breaker • on Verify there are simple hose bibb vacuum on all all threaded threaded faucets faucets around around your your home. home.breaker on all threaded faucets around your home.

• • Make Make sure sure water water treatment treatment devices devices such such as as water water • softeners Make sure water treatment devices such softeners have have thethe proper proper “air“air gap”, gap”, which which isas ais water a softeners have the proper “air gap”, which is a minimum minimum of one of one inch inch above above the the drain. drain. minimum of one inch above the drain.

Don’t...

Don’t...

Don’t...

• • Submerge Submerge hoses hoses in buckets, in buckets, pools, pools, tubs, tubs, sinks, sinks, • ponds Submerge hoses inradiators. buckets, pools, tubs, sinks, ponds or automobile or automobile radiators. ponds orattachments automobile radiators.

• • UseUse spray spray attachments without without an an approved approved backback-

• flowUse spray attachments flow prevention prevention device. device. without an approved backflow prevention device.

• • Connect Connect drain drain pipes pipes from from water water softeners softeners or other or other • treatment Connect drain pipes fromtowater softeners or other treatment systems systems directly directly the to the sewer sewer drain. drain. treatment systems directly toinch the sewer drain.

Always Always be be sure sure there there is aisone a one inch “air “air gap” gap” Always be sure there is a one inch “air gap” separation. separation. separation.

Did you know...

Your water can become contaminated if connections to your plumbing system are not properly protected?

The purpose of a local Cross Connection Program, as required by State Plumbing Code and Regulations, is to ensure everyone in the community has safe, clean drinking water.

It’s Public Safety ...

To avoid contamination, back flow preventers are required by state plumbing codes wherever there is an actual or potential hazard for cross connection.

In In thethe Kitchen Kitchen The Department of Natural Resources requires all In thedevices Kitchen Hoses Hoses andand water water treatment treatment devices may may create create a a public water suppliers to maintain an on-going Cross Hoses and waterhazard treatment may createwith awith potential potential backflow backflow hazard if not if devices not properly properly isolated isolated Connection Control Program involving public potential backflow hazard ifornot properly isolated with backflow backflow prevention prevention devices devices methods. or methods. education, onsite inspections, and possible corrective backflow prevention devices or methods. actions by building owners.

Weston Municipal Center 5500 Schofield Avenue Weston WI 54476

Did you know...

Do...

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WI Dept. of Safety & Professional Services: www.dsps.wi.gov WI Department of Natural Resources: www.dnr.wi.gov Environmental Protection Agency: www.epa.gov WI Cross Connection Control Resources: www.hydrodesignsinc.com/wiccc.html

PUBLIC AWARENESS:

Cross Connection Control

8

2015 UTILITIES ANNUAL REPORT

WASTEWATER COLLECTION WESTON MUNICIPAL UTILITIES REPORTS HIGH MARKS FOR WASTEWATER COLLECTION SYSTEM

OWNER TIP: GET SEWER BACKUP INSURANCE

By John Borth, Utility Foreman

By Donna VanSwol, Utility Clerk

Weston Municipal Utilities recently filed its “Compliance Maintenance Annual Report” (CMAR) for the wastewater collection system with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Weston Municipal Utilities received a grade of A for its operations.

Weston Municipal Utilities does not provide any compensation to property owners (or renters) for damage resulting from sudden accidental sewer backups.

The CMAR is a relatively recent requirement for collection systems, as the focus of regulation has traditionally been on wastewater treatment facilities. The importance of wastewater collection systems is not something to be overlooked. When it comes to the things we take for granted, having the convenience of sanitary waste disposal in our homes and buildings is probably only second to having potable water at the turn of a faucet. Both services have virtually eliminated the spread of waterborne diseases via the water supply in modern society.

The CMAR for wastewater collection systems is intended to help utilities sharpen their focus on the condition of their collection systems. The main areas of reporting are Financial Management, Administration, and Operation and Maintenance. While the CMAR is currently a self-assessment, the Wisconsin DNR is now beginning to follow up with utilities on the condition of their collection systems and their implementation of best practices to assure they can provide reliable service.

Weston Municipal Utilities strives to improve its operations to meet the needs of its customers. In 2016, the utility will be updating its sewer user ordinance and evaluating its rates, including how its rates are designed with respect to customers with unusual waste characteristics. The utility also plans to systematically assess the condition of the collection system through televising and cleaning over a 5- to 10-year period. As is often the case with municipal work, the job is never finished and there are always things that could be improved. However, the bottom line is that the utility’s collection system is able to provide reliable service to its customers through the efforts of the staff and the commitment of the Village Board of Trustees to deliver this essential service.

Sewer backups are rare, but can be devastating and very costly. The Utility conducts a routine sewer cleaning program. All sewers are cleaned at least once every three years. Problem areas are cleaned more frequently. Weston Municipal Utilities recommends the next time you renew your homeowner’s insurance policy that you consider adding coverage for this hazard. Some companies offer coverage without additional cost, while others charge an additional premium. Coverage may also be limited to clean up only or a capped amount of damage, so please look into these details as you consider the value of the coverage.

Weston Municipal Utilities also urges you to take steps to mitigate damage if at all possible. One of the most effective ways to minimize sewer backup damage is to install a check valve in your basement floor drain. While this check valve requires periodic cleaning to ensure proper working conditions, it can reduce the devastating effects of a sewer backup.

FLUSHABLE WIPES – NOT SO FLUSHABLE Throughout the country, wastewater collection and treatment systems are experiencing problems with clogged pumps and clogged sewer mains due to the use of items commonly referred to as “flushable wipes.” Items such as baby or adult wipes, diapers, rags, paper towels, etc. should NOT be flushed down the toilet or drains. Even though packaging for these products may state they are biodegradable, they will often cause blockages in service laterals or mains, which can lead to sewer backups in homes and plugging of pumps in the collection system.

Please don’t flush any paper products down your toilet other than toilet paper. Place those other items into garbage receptacles.

Pictures of a float type ball valve as distributed

by General Pipe Cleaners.

The valve is designed to retrofit into an existing drain. The float is normally down to allow water to run down the drain.

However, if water rises in the drain from the main or sewer lateral, the float rises and seats to prevent water from flowing back into the building. There are other styles of valves, but all would work on the ball float principle.

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2015 UTILITIES ANNUAL REPORT

SANITARY SEWER CLEANING

By Trevor Skerven, Utility Maintenance Worker

air (and water) to vent from a plumbing fixture. The resulting spray of water and air in the wrong direction occurs in an unintended and undesirable location inside a building. This is more likely to occur in older construction, where more fixtures might share common vent pipes. Since plumbing codes changed over time, newer constructions are less likely to experience this problem. The sanitary sewer maintenance staff tries to use some finesse in the areas of the Village with older construction to minimize problems by jetting at lower pressures. However, this can add time to the process and reduce cleaning efficiency. Even by modifying the procedure, the Village cannot guarantee problems won’t occur and cannot be responsible for damage.

Each year during the summer months, Weston Municipal Utilities cleans mains and sewer holess on approximately one-third of the sewer collection system. In this way, all 103 miles of mainline sewers are cleaned at least once every three years. There are a few areas that are prone to recurring problems, such as mains with very flat slope. In these cases, the sewers are cleaned more frequently. There are also those infrequent, unpredictable, situations where a blockage occurs and an immediate response is necessary.

Sanitary sewer cleaning is accomplished with the sewer “jetter” truck, a.k.a. “vac” truck. The “jetter” moniker comes from the equipment’s capability to spray (jet) water through a pump and hose with special nozzles that propel the hose through the sewer main while cleaning any settled debris. The “vac” term makes reference to the truck’s additional capability of vacuuming the water and debris from the sewer holess while the jetter hose works its way up the mains. The jetting process creates a spray pattern that covers the entire inside surface of the sewer mains. As the jetter passes by sewer lateral connections, some of this spray enters the sewer lateral. Anytime liquid enters a sewer lateral, it pushes out the air in that lateral and vice versa. The purpose of the venting on a building’s wastewater disposal piping is to provide for this exchange of air and water. If the plumbing vent(s) is/are restricted or plugged while sewer jetting is taking place, the air that would normally exit the vent through the roof can compress inside the plumbing until the pressure is high enough to allow the

STERN NORTHWE

SANDY LN

X " )

ROSS AV

ALDERSON ST

Area 1 - 2016 Cleaning

SC HO FIE

AV

CALLON AV

E JELINEK AV

JELINEK AV BIRCH ST

NORMANDY ST

Please be aware of the sewer cleaning process in your area. You may wish to inspect your plumbing vents to be sure they are functioning properly.

ST ER LL FU

NEUPERT AV

LD

MESKER ST

Village of Weston Boundary

STERNBERG AV

51 £ ¤

Legend

EAU CLAIRE AVE

RO SS AV

City of Schofield

During the summer of 2016, the sanitary sewers on the east side of the Village will be cleaned. The area affected is generally all areas east of Von Kanel Street served by the utility.

The map at left shows the areas to be cleaned in 2016.

Town of Weston

AV

SCHO

FIELD AV

COMMERCE DR

ALDERSON ST

0.5

" )J

RYAN ST

ZINSER ST

CTH

WESTON AVE

WESTON AV

SHOREY AV

.

0.25

29 «

X " )

Village of Rothschild

0

X

BIRCH ST

VON KANEL ST

29 «

HOWLAND AV

1 Miles

Village of Weston Sewer Cleaning for 2016 Date: 6/15/2016

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2015 UTILITIES ANNUAL REPORT

2015 BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Barb Ermeling

Scott Berger

Sharon Jaeger

Kevin Ostrowski

President

Trustee

Trustee (Former)

Trustee

Karen Schmutzler

Fred Schuster

Loren White

Jon Ziegler

Trustee (Former)

Trustee

Trustee

Trustee

2015 UTILITY LEADERSHIP TEAM

Neal Adams

John Borth

Chad Dietsche

Keith Donner

Daniel Guild

John Jensen

Citizen Committee Member

Utility Foreman

Utility Operator

Director of Public Works & Utilities

Administrator

Citizen Committee Member

Dave Krause

Kevin Ostrowski

Mark Porlier

Donna VanSwol

Michael Wodalski

Jon Ziegler

Utility Operator

Committee Vice Chair

Citizen Committee Member

Utility Clerk

Deputy Director of Public Works

Committee Chair

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2015 UTILITIES ANNUAL REPORT

STORMWATER UTILITY FAQS

By Michael Wodalski, Deputy Director of Public Works

WHAT IS STORMWATER? Stormwater is the water that runs off property when it rains. Stormwater flows into streets, storm sewers, and ditches and is carried directly into the nearby lakes and/or rivers.

POLLUTION When stormwater flows across driveways, parking lots, lawns, streets, and other surfaces, it can pick up pollutants along the way. The pollution comes from several sources: oil that leaks from vehicles, tire and brake lining wear, pesticides on lawns, leaves, etc. When this pollution reaches the lakes and rivers, it can hurt the fish and plants that live there. It can also cause algae to grow, making boating, swimming, or fishing in these water bodies less desirable.

FLOODING “Imperviousness” results when houses or buildings are built on a lot that was previously vegetated. An impervious surface does not allow water to soak into the ground. For example, driveways, rooftops, parking lots, and streets are considered to be impervious surfaces.

Increased areas of impervious surface result in more water running off the land and can lead to increased flooding.

STORMWATER MANAGEMENT Traditional stormwater management focused only on handling the “quantity” of water from precipitation and the resulting flooding issues.

Storm sewers and ditches were built to quickly carry stormwater away from homes and buildings so it would not back up and flood adjoining properties. More recently, the “quality” aspect of stormwater management has become increasingly important.

Pollution from stormwater is recognized as a major reason for impairment to rivers and lakes in Wisconsin. Accordingly, stormwater management now also addresses water quality issues related to stormwater.

WHAT IS A STORMWATER UTILITY? A stormwater utility is a way to fund the cost of municipal stormwater management services.

It’s similar to an electric, water, or wastewater utility.

Citizens and businesses are charged a utility fee for stormwater management services provided.

Stormwater utility fees are based on the amount of impervious surface on the property and the amount of runoff that surface generates. (See detailed explanation below.)

WHY WAS A STORMWATER UTILITY CREATED? Federal and state governments initiated regulatory programs for stormwater pollution control.

However, local governments were left to finance the programs and capital improvements on their own to comply with these ever-evolving rule changes. The Village created the stormwater utility in 2004, when the impacts of impending rule changes weren’t completely understood. What was clear was that the Village’s ability to fund stormwater regulation compliance projects would not be possible through the property tax levy without reducing other services. This was due to reductions in state shared revenue ($4,131,204 since 2003), as well as tax levy limits on local governments statewide.

Weston’s stormwater utility assures the Village can comply with stormwater regulations intended to protect and improve our valuable water resources—without diverting financial resources away from other services. The utility funds such public amenities as storm sewer maintenance and repair, new storm sewer construction, and ditch maintenance, as well as the administrative costs associated with stormwater management.

Stormwater utility fees also pay for practices to reduce flooding and to help improve water quality.

Currently, the Village is compliant with the original regulations related to Total Suspended Solids Removal, but 2018 will see the introduction of new rules related to phosphorus reduction. The study is still in progress to determine what those implications may be.

HOW DO YOU DETERMINE HOW MUCH I PAY FOR STORMWATER SERVICES? Through the 2003 budget, stormwater services were paid by property taxes. However, paying stormwater-management service costs with property taxes tied stormwater costs to the value of a property. This method did not account for the amount of runoff generated from the property.

Before creating the stormwater utility, residential properties in Weston used to pay 68% of the costs related to stormwater management, when in reality, residential properties only generated about 32% of the stormwater runoff.

12

2015 UTILITIES ANNUAL REPORT

With the creation of a stormwater utility, fees became based on two factors: (1) the cost of the municipal stormwater management program and (2) the amount of impervious surface on a property.

Impervious Area Includes: ♦ House Roof ♦ Garage Roof ♦ Driveway ♦ Patio ♦ Private sidewalks

The stormwater utility fee is added as a separate line item on the quarterly utility bill that each property already receives for sanitary sewer and drinking water services. Rural property owners who do not receive sewer or water service still receive a bill from the stormwater utility.

By charging a stormwater utility fee based on impervious surface area, all property owners now pay for stormwater costs in proportion to the amount of runoff their property creates—32% from residential properties and 68% from all others.

Impervious Area Does Not Include: ♦ Lawn and Landscaping ♦ Road and Right of Way ♦ Public Sidewalk

Assume: 1 ERU = 3,338 sq. ft.

To determine the amount of stormwater runoff generated (as measured by impervious surfaces), an ERU (Equivalent Runoff Unit) is calculated. The ERU is equal to the average impervious area of all the singlefamily homes in Weston.

For the Village, an ERU was calculated to equal 3,338 square feet.

This was determined by using aerial photographs and by sampling a statistically significant number of homes. Each singlefamily homeowner pays the cost for one ERU. All other types of properties pay for multiple ERUs based on the amount of their actual impervious area. Undeveloped property (with no impervious surfaces) pay no stormwater utility fees.

Examples of Estimated Utility Fees for Different Property Types Type of Property Single Family Fast Food Restaurant Church Apartment Complex Large Discount Retail

Sq. Ft. of Quarterly Impervious ERUs* Charge Area 3,338 1.0 $12.50

$50.00

35,186

10.5

$131.25

$525.00

85,000

25.5

$318.75

$1,275.00

133,009

39.8

$497.50

$1,990.00

438,794

131.5

$1,643.75

$6,575.00

Annual Charge

*ERUs = Equivalent Runoff Units

70

60

Percent of Stormwater Budget

For this example say the average impervious area = 3,338 sq. ft;

80

50

Property Tax

40

User Fee

30

20

10

0 Residential

Other Property Customer Class

A BETTER FUTURE… The Village of Weston is striving to protect its infrastructure, businesses, and homes from damage due to flooding. It is also working toward improving the water quality of its nearby lakes and rivers so that its citizens may boat, fish, and swim in cleaner water. A stormwater utility is an equitable and fair system to support stormwater management services.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Keith Donner Director of Public Works & Utilities 5500 Schofield Avenue Weston, WI 54476 (715) 241-2610

Michael Wodalski Deputy Director of Public Works 5500 Schofield Avenue Weston, WI 54476 (715) 241-2636

WESTON MUNICIPAL UTILITIES Check out the 2015 Consumer Confidence Report www.westonwi.gov/2015CCR

PLEASE CONTACT THE UTILITY OFFICE IF YOU NEED TO MAKE PAYMENT ARRANGEMENTS If you are late with a payment, contact us at: 715-359-2876 715-355-4534 (after hours voice mail) dvanswol@westonwi.gov (e-mail)